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Orinoco four-eyed opossum
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Orinoco four-eyed opossum

marsupial
Also known as: Orinoco four-eyed possum, Philander deltae
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Quick Summary

The Orinoco four-eyed opossum (P. deltae) is one of seven species of marsupials in the genus Philander, found in South America. These opossums are named for the distinctive white or cream-colored spots above each eye.1

Key characteristics include:
* Size: Adults typically range from 16 to 32 inches (40 to 80 cm) in length and weigh up to 1.5 pounds (700 grams).1
* Tail: The tail is slightly longer than the head and body, with the basal half to two-thirds being black.1
* Diet: They are omnivorous, consuming fruits, birds, reptiles, amphibians, small mammals, insects, and carrion.1
* Reproduction: Females possess a pouch with five to nine teats, and litter sizes range from two to seven young.1

The Orinoco four-eyed opossum specifically inhabits the delta of the Orinoco River in Venezuela.1

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
2 Britannica Sources
  1. four-eyed opossum
  2. photoreception - Optics of superposition eyes

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